The music scene in Fiji has long welcomed artists from diverse backgrounds, showcasing their remarkable talents in singing, songwriting, and instrumentation. Attending concerts or gigs is a vibrant experience, marked by a wave of joyful emotions that stem from powerful performances, audience connection, and a shared appreciation for the music.
This sentiment was evident at the recent 2024 Reggae Music Festival held at Bidesi Ground, where the dynamic group Chapter 5 (C5) captivated the audience with their reggae renditions. This remarkable band is composed of cousins and siblings—Nicholas Smith (drummer), Michael Yalani (lead guitarist), and Niko Yalani (rhythm guitarist). Later, Filipe Yalani (bassist) along with vocalists Maya and Niu Smith joined the lineup, enlivening their sound with modern covers.
The band’s name reflects their lineage, as Nicholas explains, “We are the fifth generation,” emphasizing their family’s long tradition in music. Their great uncle, the late Arthur Philitoga, left a significant mark on the industry, inspiring the younger generation. Known for his candidness and passion regarding live music, Philitoga founded a band named Kulture in 1993, and his talent-spotting abilities greatly influenced his nephews and nieces.
Nicholas acknowledges the challenges of navigating the music industry while being part of a musical family, which naturally sets high expectations. However, he sees this pressure as an incentive that fuels their ambition: “We always let that be our goal and our inspiration.”
Although still early in their journey, Chapter 5 enjoys regular gig invitations, particularly at Mana Coffee in Suva. The band members, who are all under the age of 25, not only enjoy playing together but also effectively communicate and resolve conflicts, which strengthens their bond.
They draw inspiration from local artists like Olsen J Sefo and Myles Manulevu. Their connection with Sefo, fostered through an uncle, led them to their first gig and subsequent opportunities. In just over a year as a band, C5 is earning praise from performances and looks forward to future growth, fueled by support from their families and the broader music community.
The story of Chapter 5 illustrates the power of familial ties and shared passion in pursuit of artistic expressions, bearing witness to the rich cultural tapestry of Fijian music. Their journey highlights not just the heritage of musical talent but also the bright future ahead for emerging artists in Fiji’s vibrant entertainment landscape, inviting optimism for what’s to come.
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